Bhutan, the small Himalayan kingdom that introduced the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) to the world, is facing a significant challenge: a record number of young Bhutanese are leaving the country.
Despite offering free healthcare and education, increasing life expectancy, and steady economic growth over the past three decades, Bhutan is grappling with a wave of outmigration. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay attributes this trend to the success of GNH itself, which has made Bhutanese youth highly desirable abroad. "It is an existential crisis," Tobgay stated.
A History of Isolation and Cultural Preservation
For centuries, Bhutan remained largely isolated, protecting its unique Buddhist culture. It only began welcoming foreign tourists in the 1970s and introduced television in 1999. Buddhism permeates daily life, with older citizens spinning prayer wheels and adorning hillsides with prayer flags. The country’s capital, Thimpu, still operates without traffic lights, sharing roads with both cars and cows.
Dasho Kinley Dorji, a former government minister and journalist, emphasizes Bhutan's focus on preserving its identity in the face of neighboring giants India and China. Traditional clothing, architecture, and values remain strong, and the nation prioritizes its heritage as a source of resilience.
The Path to Modernity: Gross National Happiness
Bhutan's modern journey began in the 1970s under its fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who famously stated that Gross National Happiness was more important than Gross National Product. The philosophy prioritizes sustainable development, cultural preservation, and the well-being of citizens over economic metrics. Policies are informed by nationwide surveys measuring happiness and are geared toward fostering long-term contentment.
Bhutan has also committed to environmental stewardship, mandating that at least 60% of the country remain forested and achieving carbon-negative status through hydroelectric power.
Challenges in the Present: Outmigration and Economic Pressures
The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted Bhutan's tourism-dependent economy, leading to slow recovery. Meanwhile, young Bhutanese, proficient in English, have sought better-paying jobs abroad, particularly in Australia. Today, approximately 9% of Bhutan's population has emigrated, creating what officials describe as a crisis.
A Bold Plan: Gelephu Mindfulness City
To address the issue, Bhutan's king has initiated a high-stakes plan to attract talent back home. The centerpiece is Gelephu Mindfulness City, a new urban development in southern Bhutan designed by Danish architect Bjarke Ingels. The city will feature neighborhoods integrated with rivers and wildlife corridors, with buildings made from local materials. It aims to foster economic growth while remaining true to Bhutanese values.
The city will run on clean hydroelectric power and adopt a legal framework inspired by Singapore, with a focus on attracting technology and AI companies. Construction will occur in phases over two decades, with an emphasis on sustainability.
A Call to Action and Hope for the Future
The king's ambitious vision has inspired some Bhutanese to reconsider leaving. Namgay Zam, a journalist who had planned to move to Australia, decided to stay after hearing the king personally appeal to citizens for help. "He asked us, 'Will you help me?' and I couldn't say no," Zam recalled.
The king has also taken his message abroad, addressing Bhutanese communities in Australia, urging them to return and be part of the country's future. Architect Bjarke Ingels hopes the project will serve as a global model: "If we succeed, we can show the world how to create a city that harmonizes nature, culture, and prosperity."
Bhutan’s struggle reflects the complexities of balancing tradition, modernity, and the aspirations of its youth. The success of initiatives like Gelephu Mindfulness City could determine the nation's path forward.
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